Elemental variations in preeclampsia

Objective: There are alterations in elemental metabolism due to physiological and pathological processes in pregnancy. In this study, the physiological distribution of elements between the mother and the fetus is investigated along with the variations in the elemental status of the maternal- fetal-placental unit in pregnancies complicated with preeclamptic toxemia. Methods: Cu. Zn, Fe, Mg and Ca levels in placental tissue, maternal and fetal plasma and fetal red blood cells in the healthy individuals (n=9) and preeclamptics (n=10) are determined by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry. Results: Within the control group, significant differences between maternal and fetal plasma have been detected with respect to Cu (p<0.001) and Fe(p<0.05) levels. Comparing the preeclamptics with the controls, the most marked variation is observed in Zn status with significantly decreased concentrations in maternal and fetal plasma (p<0.05) and fetal red blood cells (p<0.01). Significant variations are also determined for Cu in fetal red blood cells (p<0.05), Ca in placental tissue (p<0.01) and fetal plasma (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study points out the disturbances in the elemental status of the maternal-fetal-placental unit in preeclampsia.